Stunning Beach Town in Southern France, christened as the 'Surfing Capital of Europe', captivates with its mesmerizing allure.
Discover Soorts-Hossegor: The Surfing Capital of Europe
Nestled in the picturesque southwestern region of France, Soorts-Hossegor boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and a thriving sports scene, earning it the affectionate title of "the surfing capital of Europe."
This coastal paradise, situated near Biarritz, exudes a laid-back elegance and charm, with fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and local artisans coexisting harmoniously with traditional timber-framed houses and modern villas.
Key Attractions
Soorts-Hossegor's top attractions and activities revolve around its beaches, natural surroundings, and sports culture. The town lies at the start of the famous Côte d'Argent (Silver Coast) with its endless wide sandy beaches.
- Plage de la Gravière, a renowned surf spot, is famous for its challenging waves and offers a perfect spot for both relaxation and surfing enthusiasts. Nearby, Plage Centrale and Plage du Rey are popular for a variety of beach activities, sunbathing, and swimming.
- A visit to Lac d'Hossegor is a must for nature lovers. This beautiful marine lake is home to a rich biodiversity and offers opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and admiring the tranquil natural scenery.
- The vast Landes Forest, surrounding Hossegor, offers marked trails for biking and hiking, orienteering courses, and nature discovery tours, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- For golf enthusiasts, the Golf of Hossegor provides a well-maintained golf course within a scenic environment.
- Cultural and recreational venues such as the Sporting Casino offer entertainment and a taste of local culture, while numerous markets provide a vibrant atmosphere with fresh produce, regional cheeses, charcuterie, and local crafts.
Popular Activities
Surfing undoubtedly takes centre stage in Soorts-Hossegor, with world-class waves, especially at Plage de la Gravière. Surf shops and board rentals support both beginners and experts, ensuring everyone can enjoy the surfing experience.
Outdoor sports, such as walking, cycling in the Landes Forest, rowing competitions, and swimming events, are common throughout the year, catering to those who prefer a more active holiday.
Festivals and events, including the Quiksilver Surf Festival in October, the International Coastal Rescue Festival in May, and various beach and cultural festivals during the summer months, add to Soorts-Hossegor's vibrant and lively atmosphere.
Shopping and markets offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture, with the Halles de Hossegor market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, and charcuterie, and local markets providing a vibrant atmosphere on weekends and seasonal evenings.
After a day of surfing or exploring the town, visitors can unwind at spots like Rockfood and Dick's Sand Bar, which form part of Hossegor's après-wave scene.
Soorts-Hossegor's diverse food scene caters to all tastes, with an abundance of oysters, mussels, and grilled fish on offer. Vegan and trendy restaurants can also be found, ensuring everyone can enjoy the local cuisine.
The surf conditions in Soorts-Hossegor attract professional surfers from around the world, with major surfing events, such as the Quiksilver Pro France, being held annually. The town's food scene, with its rich gastronomic tradition, reflects the Gascony region, featuring fresh products and generous wines.
Soorts-Hossegor, with its diverse attractions, activities, and food scene, presents a compelling destination for visitors seeking nature, sport, and regional culture. Whether you're a surf enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a relaxing holiday by the sea, Soorts-Hossegor offers something for everyone.
Tourists seeking an adrenaline rush may enjoy consulting travel guides for recommended sports activities in Soorts-Hossegor, such as surfing at Plage de la Gravière or golfing at the Golf of Hossegor.
For sports enthusiasts, in addition to surfing, Soorts-Hossegor provides opportunities for cycling in the Landes Forest, and participation in rowing competitions, swimming events, and other outdoor sports.
